Former NFL quarterback Jay Cutler was arrested on Thursday evening in Franklin, Tennessee, on charges of driving under the influence and other offenses. Cutler, 41, allegedly rear-ended another vehicle in downtown Franklin and attempted to flee the scene, offering the other driver $2,000 to avoid involving the police, according to charging documents obtained by PEOPLE.
The retired football star, known for his time with the Chicago Bears, Miami Dolphins, and Denver Broncos, was taken into custody after officers at the scene observed that he had "bloodshot eyes" and a strong odor of alcohol. Police records further revealed that Cutler had a rifle and a loaded handgun in his vehicle at the time of his arrest.
According to the Franklin Police Department, Cutler was charged with driving under the influence, possession of a weapon while intoxicated, implied consent, and failure to exercise due care to avoid a collision. He was released later that night on a $5,000 bond and is due in court on January 16, 2025, regarding the charges.
Officers responding to the crash noticed Cutler exhibiting signs of intoxication. In an affidavit, the arresting officer wrote, "I noticed Mr. Cutler staggering, swaying, and heavy-footed while walking at the scene of the crash." The officer also noted that Cutler was slurring his speech, spoke with a "thick tongue," and had bloodshot, watery eyes. Despite initially denying drinking alcohol, Cutler later admitted that he had consumed "a little bit."
The arresting officer reported that Cutler refused to take a field sobriety test. The officer subsequently took him into custody and obtained a blood search warrant, leading to Cutler's blood being drawn at the Williamson Medical Center to determine his blood alcohol level.
While searching Cutler's vehicle, officers found a rifle in the back seat and a loaded Glock handgun in the center console, the affidavit stated. Cutler also reportedly denied that he had been involved in a crash, despite visible damage to the rear of the other vehicle involved. Cutler's truck, which had a winch on the front, showed no apparent damage.
Cutler's arrest adds to the series of challenges the former NFL star has faced in recent years. He and reality TV star Kristin Cavallari, whom he married in 2013, filed for divorce in 2020, citing "irreconcilable differences" and "inappropriate marital conduct." The couple, who share three children-Camden, 11, Jaxon, 9, and Saylor, 8-were also the focus of the E! reality show "Very Cavallari," which aired between 2018 and 2020.
The Franklin Police Department spokesperson confirmed that Cutler faces multiple charges, including illegal possession of firearms while intoxicated. Tennessee law prohibits individuals under the influence from possessing a firearm, making this an additional serious charge alongside the DUI.
The police affidavit also highlighted that Cutler allegedly tried to bribe the driver of the other vehicle to avoid calling law enforcement. "Mr. Cutler offered $2,000 to the other driver if he didn't call the police," the officer noted. However, the other driver declined the offer, leading to the police being called to the scene.
Cutler's legal troubles now include restrictions on his driving privileges. TMZ reported that the former quarterback can still drive but must use an ignition interlock device-a Breathalyzer that prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver fails the test-as a condition of his bond. The device is commonly required for individuals charged with DUI to ensure they are sober while driving.
Cutler's representatives have not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident. The arrest marks a significant fall from grace for the former Pro Bowler, who amassed 35,133 passing yards and 227 touchdowns during his 12-season NFL career. Despite his successes on the field, Cutler's post-NFL life has been marred by personal and legal issues.
The incident has also drawn significant public attention due to Cutler's past as a prominent NFL player and reality TV personality. Cutler has often made headlines for his sometimes controversial behavior, both during and after his NFL career. This latest incident is likely to have lasting consequences, both legally and in terms of his public image.
Cutler's court date in January will determine the legal outcome of these charges, but the allegations of attempting to flee the scene and the presence of firearms in his vehicle are likely to complicate his defense. As he prepares to face these charges, Cutler's future remains uncertain, and his once-promising public persona has taken yet another hit.
